Integrated circuit package-in-package system

ABSTRACT

An integrated circuit package-in-package system is provided forming a first integrated circuit package having a first interface, stacking a second integrated circuit package having a second interface above the first integrated circuit package, fitting the first interface and the second interface, and attaching a third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 11/276,941 filed Mar. 17, 2006.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to integrated circuit packagesand more particularly to integrated circuit package-in-package.

BACKGROUND ART

Modern consumer electronics, such as smart phones, personal digitalassistants, and location based services devices, as well as enterpriseelectronics, such as servers and storage arrays, are packing moreintegrated circuits into an ever shrinking physical space withexpectations for decreasing cost. Numerous technologies have beendeveloped to meet these requirements. Some of the research anddevelopment strategies focus on new package technologies while othersfocus on improving the existing and mature package technologies.Research and development in the existing package technologies may take amyriad of different directions.

One proven way to reduce cost is to use package technologies withexisting manufacturing methods and equipments. Paradoxically, the reuseof existing manufacturing processes does not typically result in thereduction of package dimensions. Existing packaging technologiesstruggle to cost effectively meet the ever demanding integration oftoday's integrated circuits and packages.

In response to the demands for improved packaging, many innovativepackage designs have been conceived and brought to market. Themulti-chip module has achieved a prominent role in reducing the boardspace. Numerous package approaches stack multiple integrated circuit,package level stacking, or package-on-package (POP). Known-good-die(KGD) and assembly process yields are not an issue since each packagecan be tested prior to assembly, allowing KGD to be used in assemblingthe stack. But stacking integrated devices, package-in-package, orcombination thereof have system level difficulties.

Thus, a need still remains for the integrated circuit package systemproviding low cost manufacturing as well as flexibility for differentstacking configurations. In view of the ever-increasing need to savecosts and improve efficiencies, it is more and more critical thatanswers be found to these problems.

Solutions to these problems have been long sought but prior developmentshave not taught or suggested any solutions and, thus, solutions to theseproblems have long eluded those skilled in the art.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides an integrated circuit package-in-packagesystem including forming a first integrated circuit package having afirst interface, stacking a second integrated circuit package having asecond interface above the first integrated circuit package, fitting thefirst interface and the second interface, and attaching a thirdintegrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package.

Certain embodiments of the invention have other aspects in addition toor in place of those mentioned or obvious from the above. The aspectswill become apparent to those skilled in the art from a reading of thefollowing detailed description when taken with reference to theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a first integrated circuitpackage-in-package system in an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a first bottom integrated circuitpackage, an alternative to the first integrated circuit package of FIG.1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a second bottom integrated circuitpackage, another alternative to the first integrated circuit package ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a third bottom integrated circuitpackage, yet another alternative to the first integrated circuit packageof FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth bottom integrated circuitpackage, yet another alternative to the first integrated circuit packageof FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a second integrated circuitpackage-in-package system in an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a third integrated circuitpackage-in-package system in another alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth integrated circuitpackage-in-package system in yet another alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a fifth integrated circuitpackage-in-package system in yet another alternative embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a fifth integrated circuitpackage-in-package system in yet another alternative embodiment of thepresent invention; and

FIG. 11 is a flow chart of an integrated circuit package-in-packagesystem for the integrated circuit package-in-package system in anembodiment of the present invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

In the following description, numerous specific details are given toprovide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will beapparent that the invention may be practiced without these specificdetails. In order to avoid obscuring the present invention, somewell-known system configurations, and process steps are not disclosed indetail. Likewise, the drawings showing embodiments of the apparatus aresemi-diagrammatic and not to scale and, particularly, some of thedimensions are for the clarity of presentation and are shown greatlyexaggerated in the figures. In addition, where multiple embodiments aredisclosed and described having some features in common, for clarity andease of illustration, description, and comprehension thereof, similarand like features one to another will ordinarily be described with likereference numerals.

The term “horizontal” as used herein is defined as a plane parallel tothe conventional integrated circuit surface, regardless of itsorientation. The term “vertical” refers to a direction perpendicular tothe horizontal as just defined. Terms, such as “above”, “below”,“bottom”, “top”, “side” (as in “sidewall”), “higher”, “lower”, “upper”,“over”, and “under”, are defined with respect to the horizontal plane.The term “on” means there is direct contact among elements.

The term “processing” as used herein includes deposition of material,patterning, exposure, development, etching, cleaning, molding, and/orremoval of the material or as required in forming a described structure.

Referring now to FIG. 1, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of afirst integrated circuit package-in-package system 100 in an embodimentof the present invention. A first integrated circuit package 102, suchas an integrated circuit die, is the bottom package. A second integratedcircuit package 104 having a first encapsulation 106 is above the firstintegrated circuit package 102. A package encapsulation 108 having arecess 110 covers the second integrated circuit package 104. A thirdintegrated circuit package 112 is in the recess 110 above the firstintegrated circuit package 102 and mounted on the second integratedcircuit package 104.

The first integrated circuit package 102 includes a first integratedcircuit die 114 attached on a first substrate 116 with a first adhesive118. First interconnects 120, such as bond wires, connect between thefirst integrated circuit die 114 and bond pads 122 of the firstsubstrate 116.

The first substrate 116, such as an organic or inorganic substrate,includes a top metal layer 124 having the bond pads 122 and a bottommetal layer 126 having contact sites 128 for attaching externalinterconnects 130. The external interconnects 130, such as solder balls,connect to the next system level (not shown), such as a printed circuitboard. Electrical vias 132 connect the top metal layer 124 and thebottom metal layer 126 in a predetermined configuration. An insulation134 separates the top metal layer 124 and the bottom metal layer 126,traces (not shown) of the top metal layer 124 from each other, traces(not shown) of the bottom metal layer 126 from each other, and theelectrical vias 132 from each other.

The second integrated circuit package 104 includes a second integratedcircuit die 136 attached on a second substrate 138 with a secondadhesive 140. Second interconnects 142, such as bond wires, connectbetween the second integrated circuit die 136 and bond fingers 144 ofthe second substrate 138.

The second substrate 138 includes a first side 146 and a second side148. The first side 146 includes the bond fingers 144. The bond fingers144 are at the boundary of the first side 146. The second side 148includes terminal pads 150 for further connections. The terminal pads150 may be at the boundary of the second side 148 as well as in aninterior of the second side 148. The terminal pads 150 in the interiormay be in an array configuration.

The first encapsulation 106 covers the second interconnects 142 and hasa cavity 152 exposing an inner area of the second integrated circuit die136. With the second integrated circuit package 104 on the firstintegrated circuit package 102, the first integrated circuit die 114 andthe first interconnects 120 are in the cavity 152. The firstencapsulation 106 is on the first substrate 116. A first interface, suchas a physical interface, of the first integrated circuit package 102 isdefined by physical dimensions of the first integrated circuit die 114and the first interconnects 120. The second interface, such as aphysical interface, of the second integrated circuit package 104 isdefined by the cavity 152.

The third integrated circuit package 112, such as a flip chip, includesa third integrated circuit die 154 having third interconnects 156thereon. The third integrated circuit package 112 is in the recess 110and mounts on the second substrate 138 with the third interconnects 156attached to a portion of the terminal pads 150 of the second substrate138.

Fourth interconnects 158, such as bond wires, connect between theterminal pads 150 at the boundary of the second side 148 of the secondsubstrate 138 and the bond pads 122 of the first substrate 116. Thepackage encapsulation 108 covers the fourth interconnects 158 with theterminal pads 150 at the boundary of the second side 148 and partiallycovers the second integrated circuit package 104 exposing an inner areaof the second side 148.

Referring now to FIG. 2, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of afirst bottom integrated circuit package 200, an alternative to the firstintegrated circuit package 102 of FIG. 1. The first bottom integratedcircuit package 200 includes a first integrated circuit die 202 attachedon a first substrate 204 with a first adhesive 206. First interconnects208, such as bond wires, connect between the first integrated circuitdie 202 and bond pads 210 of the first substrate 204. A bottom packageencapsulation 212 covers the first integrated circuit die 202 and thefirst interconnects 208. A first interface, such as a physicalinterface, of the first bottom integrated circuit package 200 is definedby physical dimensions of the bottom package encapsulation 212. Thestructure of the bottom package encapsulation 212 fits into the cavity152 of FIG. 1.

The first substrate 204, such as an organic or inorganic substrate,includes a top metal layer 214 having the bond pads 210 and a bottommetal layer 216 having contact sites 218 for further connections.Electrical vias 220 connect the top metal layer 214 and the bottom metallayer 216 in a predetermined configuration. An insulation 222 separatesthe top metal layer 214 and the bottom metal layer 216, traces (notshown) of the top metal layer 214 from each other, traces (not shown) ofthe bottom metal layer 216 from each other, and the electrical vias 220from each other.

Referring now to FIG. 3, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of asecond bottom integrated circuit package 300, another alternative to thefirst integrated circuit package 102 of FIG. 1. The second bottomintegrated circuit package 300 includes a first integrated circuit die302, such as a flip chip, attached on a first substrate 304. Firstinterconnects 306, such as solder bumps, connect between the firstintegrated circuit die 302 and a portion of bond pads 308 in an arrayconfiguration of the first substrate 304. An underfill encapsulation 310covers an active side 312 of the first integrated circuit die 302 andthe first interconnects 306. A first interface, such as a physicalinterface, of the second bottom integrated circuit package 300 isdefined by physical dimensions of the first integrated circuit die 302.The first integrated circuit die 302 and the first interconnects 306 fitinto the cavity 152 of FIG. 1.

The first substrate 304, such as an organic or inorganic substrate,includes a top metal layer 314 having the bond pads 308 and a bottommetal layer 316 having contact sites 318 for further connections.Electrical vias 320 connect the top metal layer 314 and the bottom metallayer 316 in a predetermined configuration. An insulation 322 separatesthe top metal layer 314 and the bottom metal layer 316, traces (notshown) of the top metal layer 314 from each other, traces (not shown) ofthe bottom metal layer 316 from each other, and the electrical vias 320from each other.

Referring now to FIG. 4, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of athird bottom integrated circuit package 400, yet another alternative tothe first integrated circuit package 102 of FIG. 1. The third bottomintegrated circuit package 400 includes devices 402, such as smallpackaged components or passive components, attached on a first substrate404. First interconnects 406, such as solder, connect between thedevices 402 and a portion of bond pads 408 of the first substrate 404. Afirst interface, such as a physical interface, of the third bottomintegrated circuit package 400 is defined by physical dimensions of thedevices 402, mounted on the first substrate 404. The devices 402 fitinto the cavity 152 of FIG. 1.

The first substrate 404, such as an organic or inorganic substrate,includes a top metal layer 410 having the bond pads 408 and a bottommetal layer 412 having contact sites 414 for further connections.Electrical vias 416 connect the top metal layer 410 and the bottom metallayer 412 in a predetermined configuration. An insulation 418 separatesthe top metal layer 410 and the bottom metal layer 412, traces (notshown) of the top metal layer 410 from each other, traces (not shown) ofthe bottom metal layer 412 from each other, and the electrical vias 416from each other.

Referring now to FIG. 5, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of afourth bottom integrated circuit package 500, yet another alternative tothe first integrated circuit package 102 of FIG. 1. The fourth bottomintegrated circuit package 500 includes a first integrated circuit die502 and a first substrate 504 having an opening 506. An adhesive 508attaches the first integrated circuit die 502 to a bottom side of thefirst substrate 504 under the opening 506. First interconnects 512, suchas bond wires, connect through the opening 506 between the firstintegrated circuit die 502 and bond pads 514 next to the opening 506 ona top side of the first substrate 504. An encapsulation 516 covers thefirst integrated circuit die 502, the first interconnects 512, and theopening 506. The bond pads 514 connected to the first interconnects 512are also covered by the encapsulation 516. A first interface, such as aphysical interface, of the fourth bottom integrated circuit package 500is defined by physical dimensions of a portion of the encapsulation 516above the first substrate 504. The encapsulation 516 extending above thetop side of the first substrate 504 fits into the cavity 152 of FIG. 1.

The first substrate 504, such as an organic or inorganic substrate,includes a top metal layer 518 having the bond pads 514 and a bottommetal layer 520 having contact sites 522 for further connections.Electrical vias 524 connect the top metal layer 518 and the bottom metallayer 520 in a predetermined configuration. An insulation 526 separatesthe top metal layer 518 and the bottom metal layer 520, traces (notshown) of the top metal layer 518 from each other, traces (not shown) ofthe bottom metal layer 520 from each other, and the electrical vias 524from each other.

Referring now to FIG. 6, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of asecond integrated circuit package-in-package system 600 in analternative embodiment of the present invention. A first integratedcircuit package 602, such as a pre-molded integrated circuit package, isa bottom package and on a package substrate 604. A second integratedcircuit package 606, such as a pre-molded integrated circuit package, isabove the first integrated circuit package 602. A third integratedcircuit package 608, such as a pre-molded integrated circuit package, isabove the first integrated circuit package 602 and attached with astacking adhesive 610 onto the second integrated circuit package 606.

The first integrated circuit package 602 includes a first integratedcircuit die 612 attached on a first substrate 614 with a first adhesive616. First interconnects 618, such as bond wires, connect between thefirst integrated circuit die 612 and first bond fingers 620 of the firstsubstrate 614.

The first substrate 614 includes a first side 622 and a second side 624.The boundary of the first side 622 includes the first bond fingers 620.The second side 624 includes first terminal pads 626 for furtherconnections. The first terminal pads 626 may be at the boundary of thesecond side 624 as well as in the interior of the second side 624. Thefirst terminal pads 626 in the interior may be in an arrayconfiguration. A first interface, such as a first electrical interfacepattern, is defined by the first terminal pads 626.

First package interconnects 628, such as bond wires, connect between thefirst terminal pads 626 and the package substrate 604. A firstencapsulation 630 covers the first integrated circuit die 612 and thefirst interconnects 618 on the first substrate 614.

The second integrated circuit package 606 has a similar structure to thefirst integrated circuit package 602. The second integrated circuitpackage 606 includes a second integrated circuit die 632 on a secondsubstrate 634. Second interconnects 636, such as bond wires, connectbetween the second integrated circuit die 632 and second bond fingers638 of the second substrate 634. Stacking interconnects 640, such assolder bumps, connect second terminal pads 642 of the second substrate634 to the first terminal pads 626 of the first substrate 614 in apredetermined configuration. A second interface, such as a secondelectrical interface pattern, is defined by the second terminal pads642. A second encapsulation 646 covers the second integrated circuit die632 and the second interconnects 636 on the second substrate 634.

The third integrated circuit package 608 has a similar structure to thefirst integrated circuit package 602. The third integrated circuitpackage 608 includes a third integrated circuit die 648 on a thirdsubstrate 650. Third interconnects 652, such as bond wires, connectbetween the third integrated circuit die 648 and third bond fingers 654of the third substrate 650. Second package interconnects 656, such asbond wires, connect third terminal pads 658 of the third substrate 650to the package substrate 604 in a predetermined configuration. A thirdinterface, such as a third electrical interface pattern, is defined bythe third terminal pads 658. A third encapsulation 660 covers the thirdintegrated circuit die 648 and the third interconnects 652 on the thirdsubstrate 650.

The package substrate 604, such as an organic or inorganic substrate,includes a top metal layer 662 having the bond pads 664 and a bottommetal layer 666 having contact sites 668 for attaching externalinterconnects 670. The external interconnects 670, such as solder balls,connect to the next system level (not shown), such as a printed circuitboard. Electrical vias 672 connect the top metal layer 662 and thebottom metal layer 666 in a predetermined configuration. An insulation674 separates the top metal layer 662 and the bottom metal layer 666,traces (not shown) of the top metal layer 662 from each other, traces(not shown) of the bottom metal layer 666 from each other, and theelectrical vias 672 from each other. A package encapsulation 676 coversthe first integrated circuit package 602, the second integrated circuitpackage 606, the third integrated circuit package 608, the first packageinterconnects 628 and the second package interconnects 656 on thepackage substrate 604.

Referring now to FIG. 7, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of athird integrated circuit package-in-package system 700 in anotheralternative embodiment of the present invention. Similarly, the thirdintegrated circuit package-in-package system 700 includes a firstintegrated circuit package 702 on a package substrate 704, a secondintegrated circuit package 706 above the first integrated circuitpackage 702, and a third integrated circuit package 708 on the secondintegrated circuit package 706. The first integrated circuit package702, the second integrated circuit package 706, and the third integratedcircuit package 708 are similar in structure and stacking configurationto the first integrated circuit package 602 of FIG. 6, the secondintegrated circuit package 606 of FIG. 6, and the third integratedcircuit package 608 of FIG. 6, respectively.

The fourth integrated circuit package 710 has a similar structure to thesecond integrated circuit package 706. The fourth integrated circuitpackage 710 includes a fourth integrated circuit die 712 on a fourthsubstrate 714. Fourth interconnects 716, such as bond wires, connectbetween the fourth integrated circuit die 712 and fourth bond fingers718 of the fourth substrate 714. A fourth encapsulation 720 covers thefourth integrated circuit die 712 and the fourth interconnects 716 onthe fourth substrate 714.

Stacking interconnects 722, such as solder bumps, connect fourthterminal pads 724 of the fourth substrate 714 to third terminal pads 726of the third integrated circuit package 708 in a predeterminedconfiguration. A third interface, such as a third electrical interfacepattern, is defined by the third terminal pads 726. A fourth interface,such as a fourth electrical interface pattern, is defined by the fourthterminal pads 724. The stacking interconnects 722 also connect the firstintegrated circuit package 702 and the second integrated circuit package706. A package encapsulation 728 covers the first integrated circuitpackage 702, the second integrated circuit package 706, the thirdintegrated circuit package 708, the fourth integrated circuit package710, first package interconnects 730 and second package interconnects732 on the package substrate 704.

Referring now to FIG. 8, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of afourth integrated circuit package-in-package system 800 in yet anotheralternative embodiment of the present invention. Similarly, the fourthintegrated circuit package-in-package system 800 includes a firstintegrated circuit package 802 on a package substrate 804, a secondintegrated circuit package 806 above the first integrated circuitpackage 802, and a third integrated circuit package 808 on the secondintegrated circuit package 806. The first integrated circuit package802, the second integrated circuit package 806, and the third integratedcircuit package 808 are similar in structure and stacking configurationto the first integrated circuit package 602 of FIG. 6, the secondintegrated circuit package 606 of FIG. 6, and the third integratedcircuit package 608 of FIG. 6, respectively.

A package encapsulation 810 having a recess 812 partially covers thethird integrated circuit package 808 and exposes third terminal pads 814of the third integrated circuit package 808 for further connections. Athird interface, such as a third electrical interface pattern, isdefined by the third terminal pads 814. A fourth integrated circuit die816 and devices 818, such as small package devices, are in the recess812 and mounts on the third integrated circuit package 808. Fourthinterconnects 820, such as solder bumps, of the fourth integratedcircuit die 816 attach to the third terminal pads 814 in a predeterminedconfiguration. Fifth interconnects 822, such as solder, connect thedevices 818 on the third terminal pads 814 in a predeterminedconfiguration. A portion of a fourth interface, such as a fourthelectrical interface pattern, is defined by the fourth interconnects820. Another portion of the fourth interface is defined by the fifthinterconnects 822. The package encapsulation 810 also covers the firstintegrated circuit package 802, the second integrated circuit package806, first package interconnects 824 and second package interconnects826 on the package substrate 804.

Referring now to FIG. 9, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of afifth integrated circuit package-in-package system 900 in yet anotheralternative embodiment of the present invention. A first integratedcircuit package 902, such as a pre-molded integrated circuit package, isa bottom package and on a package substrate 904. A second integratedcircuit package 906, such as a flip chip, is above the first integratedcircuit package 902. A third integrated circuit package 908, such as apre-molded integrated circuit package with a board on chip (BOC)configuration, is above the first integrated circuit package 902 andattached with a stacking adhesive 910 on the second integrated circuitpackage 906.

The first integrated circuit package 902 is similar in structure to thefirst integrated circuit package 602 of FIG. 6 and connected to thepackage substrate 904 with first package interconnects 912. The secondintegrated circuit package 906 includes a second integrated circuit die914 having second interconnects 916, such as solder bumps, providedthereon. The second interconnects 916 attach to first terminal pads 918of the first integrated circuit package 902 in a predeterminedconfiguration. A first interface, such as a first electrical interfacepattern, is defined by the first terminal pads 918. A second interface,such as a second electrical interface pattern, is defined by the secondinterconnects 916. An underfill encapsulation 920 covers the secondinterconnects 916.

The third integrated circuit package 908 includes a third integratedcircuit die 922 and a third substrate 924 having an opening 926. Anadhesive 928 attaches the third integrated circuit die 922 to a bottomside of the third substrate 924 under the opening 926. Thirdinterconnects 930, such as bond wires, connect through the opening 926between the third integrated circuit die 922 and third terminal pads 932next to the opening 926 on a top side of the third substrate 924. Athird interface, such as a third electrical interface pattern, isdefined by the third terminal pads 932. A third encapsulation 934 coversthe third integrated circuit die 922, the third interconnects 930, andthe opening 926. The third integrated circuit package 908 attaches tothe second integrated circuit die 914 with the stacking adhesive 910.Second package interconnects 936, such as bond wires, connect betweenthe third terminal pads 932 at the boundary of the third substrate 924and the package substrate 904.

A package encapsulation 938 having a recess 940 partially covers thethird integrated circuit package 908 and exposes third terminal pads 932for further connections. A fourth integrated circuit die 942 and devices944, such as small package devices, are in the recess 940 and mounts onthe third integrated circuit package 908. Fourth interconnects 946, suchas solder bumps, of the fourth integrated circuit die 942 attach to thethird terminal pads 932 in a predetermined configuration. Fifthinterconnects 948, such as solder, connect the devices 944 on the thirdterminal pads 932 in a predetermined configuration. A portion of afourth interface, such as a fourth electrical interface pattern, isdefined by the fourth interconnects 946. Another portion of the fourthinterface is defined by the fifth interconnects 948. The packageencapsulation 938 also covers the first integrated circuit package 902,the second integrated circuit package 906, the first packageinterconnects 912 and the second package interconnects 936 on thepackage substrate 904.

Referring now to FIG. 10, therein is shown a cross-sectional view of afifth integrated circuit package-in-package system 1000 in yet anotheralternative embodiment of the present invention. A first integratedcircuit package 1002 having a first integrated circuit die 1004 is belowand attached to a second integrated circuit package 1006 with anadhesive 1008. The second integrated circuit package 1006 includes asecond integrated circuit die 1010. A third integrated circuit die 1012,and devices 1014, such as small packaged components, are above the firstintegrated circuit package 1002.

First interconnects 1016, such as bond wires, connect between the firstintegrated circuit die 1004 and bond fingers 1018 of a first substrate1020 of the first integrated circuit package 1002. A first encapsulation1022 covers the first integrated circuit die 1004 and the firstinterconnects 1016.

The first substrate 1020, such as an organic or inorganic substrate,includes a first metal layer 1024 having the bond fingers 1018 and asecond metal layer 1026 having terminal pads 1028 for furtherconnections. First electrical vias 1030 connect the first metal layer1024 and the second metal layer 1026 in a predetermined configuration. Afirst insulation 1032 separates the first metal layer 1024 and thesecond metal layer 1026, traces (not shown) of the first metal layer1024 from each other, traces (not shown) of the second metal layer 1026from each other, and the first electrical vias 1030 from each other.

Package interconnects 1034 connect between the terminal pads 1028 andbottom contact sites 1036 of a second substrate 1038 of the secondintegrated circuit package 1006. External interconnects 1040 attach tothe terminal pads 1028 in a predetermined configuration.

The third integrated circuit die 1012 attaches to the second substrate1038 with the adhesive 1008. Second interconnects 1042, such as bondwires, third interconnects 1044, such as bond wires, and fourthinterconnects 1046, such as solder, connect the second integratedcircuit die 1010, the third integrated circuit die 1012, and the devices1014, respectively, to top contact sites 1048 of the second substrate1038 in a predetermined configuration.

A package encapsulation 1050 covers the second integrated circuit die1010, the third integrated circuit die 1012, and the devices 1014 on atop side of the second substrate 1038. The package interconnects 1034are also covered by the package encapsulation 1050 on a bottom side ofthe second substrate 1038. The package encapsulation 1050 also partiallycovers the first integrated circuit package 1002 forming a recess 1052and exposing the external interconnects 1040. The package encapsulation1050 does not impede the connections of the external interconnects 1040to the next system level (not show), such as a printed circuit board.

Referring now to FIG. 11, therein is shown a flow chart of an integratedcircuit package-in-package system 1100 for the integrated circuitpackage-in-package system in an embodiment of the present invention. Thesystem 1100 includes forming a first integrated circuit package having afirst interface in a block 1102; stacking a second integrated circuitpackage having a second interface above the first integrated circuitpackage in a block 1104; fitting the first interface and the secondinterface in a block 1106; and attaching a third integrated circuitpackage on the second integrated circuit package in a block 1108.

It has been discovered that the present invention thus has numerousaspects.

It has been discovered that the present invention may form package stackstructures with decreased package height utilizing bothpackage-in-package and package on package stacking configurations.

An aspect is that the present invention provides a cavity used in thepackage-in-package structure allows for package stacking requiringminimum or no additional height due to a package fitting into the cavityof another package. A recess used in the package on package structureallows for package stacking on other packages also requiring minimum orno additional height due to a stacking package fitting into the recessof another package. Both package stacking configurations areaccomplished using tested known good devices (KGD) to improvemanufacture yield and lower cost of the resulting package structure.

Another aspect of the present invention is that the encapsulation andstacking interconnects also serving as spacers. The connected packageswith complementary pin out and terminal pad pitch allow use of thestacking interconnects to connect the packages without the need of anadditional interposer or redistribution structure. The stackinginterconnects serve as spacer for additional electrical connectionsbetween the two connected packages. The encapsulation of each of thepackage allows the packages to be stacked in one orientation orvertically flipped. The stacking packages may be tested using only KGDin the package-in-package assembly. Manufacturing steps are simplifiedwith steps removed, manufacturing yield is improved, and the overallcost of the package-in-package structure is reduced.

Thus, it has been discovered that the integrated circuitpackage-in-package system method of the present invention furnishesimportant and heretofore unknown and unavailable solutions,capabilities, and functional aspects for increasing chip density insystems. The resulting processes and configurations are straightforward,cost-effective, uncomplicated, highly versatile and effective, can beimplemented by adapting known technologies, and are thus readily suitedfor efficiently and economically manufacturing stacked integratedcircuit package-in-packaged devices.

While the invention has been described in conjunction with a specificbest mode, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modifications,and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light ofthe aforegoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace allsuch alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within thescope of the included claims. All matters hithertofore set forth hereinor shown in the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted in anillustrative and non-limiting sense.

1. An integrated circuit package-in-package system comprising: forming a first integrated circuit package having a first interface; stacking a second integrated circuit package having a second interface above the first integrated circuit package; fitting the first interface and the second interface; and attaching a third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package.
 2. (canceled)
 3. The system as claimed in claim 1 wherein fitting the first interface and the second interface comprises: forming the first interface defined by a first electrical interface pattern on a first substrate of the first integrated circuit package; forming the second interface defined by a second electrical interface pattern on a second substrate of the second integrated circuit package; and mating the first electrical interface pattern and the second electrical interface pattern.
 4. The system as claimed in claim 1 wherein: forming the first integrated circuit package having the first interface comprises: forming the first interface defined by a first electrical interface pattern on a first substrate of the first integrated circuit package; stacking the second integrated circuit package having the second interface further comprises: forming the second interface defined by a second electrical interface pattern on a second substrate of the second integrated circuit package; fitting the first interface and the second interface further comprises: mating the first electrical interface pattern and the second electrical interface pattern; attaching the third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package further comprises: stacking the third integrated circuit package having a third electrical interface pattern on the second integrated circuit package; and further comprising: stacking a fourth integrated circuit package having a fourth electrical interface pattern on the third integrated circuit package; mating the third electrical interface pattern and the fourth electrical interface pattern; and encapsulating the first integrated circuit package, the second integrated circuit package, the third integrated circuit package, and the fourth integrated circuit package.
 5. The system as claimed in claim 1 wherein: forming the first integrated circuit package having the first interface comprises: forming the first interface defined by a first electrical interface pattern on a first substrate of the first integrated circuit package; stacking the second integrated circuit package having the second interface further comprises: forming the second interface defined by a second electrical interface pattern on a second substrate of the second integrated circuit package; fitting the first interface and the second interface further comprises: mating the first electrical interface pattern and the second electrical interface pattern; and attaching the third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package further comprises: stacking the third integrated circuit package having a third electrical interface pattern on the second integrated circuit package; and further comprising: forming an encapsulation to cover the first integrated circuit package, the second integrated circuit package, and the third integrated circuit package; forming a recess in the encapsulation to expose the third electrical interface pattern on a third substrate of the third integrated circuit package; stacking a fourth integrated circuit package having a fourth electrical interface pattern in the recess on the third integrated circuit package; and mating a portion of the third electrical interface pattern and the fourth electrical interface pattern.
 6. An integrated circuit package-in-package system comprising: forming a first integrated circuit package having a first interface; stacking a second integrated circuit package having a second interface above the first integrated circuit package; fitting the first interface and the second interface; electrically connecting the first integrated circuit package and the second integrated circuit package; and attaching a third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package.
 7. (canceled)
 8. The system as claimed in claim 6 wherein attaching the third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package includes electrically connecting the third integrated circuit package and the second integrated circuit package.
 9. The system as claimed in claim 6 further comprising mounting the first integrated circuit package on a package substrate.
 10. The system as claimed in claim 6 further comprising electrically connecting the first integrated circuit package and a package substrate.
 11. An integrated circuit package-in-package system comprising: a first integrated circuit package having a first interface; a second integrated circuit package having a second interface above the first integrated circuit package; the first interface fitted with the second interface; and a third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package.
 12. (canceled)
 13. The system as claimed in claim 11 wherein the first interface with the second interface comprises: the first interface defined by a first electrical interface pattern on a first substrate of the first integrated circuit package; the second interface defined by a second electrical interface pattern on a second substrate of the second integrated circuit package; and the first electrical interface pattern mated with the second electrical interface pattern.
 14. The system as claimed in claim 11 wherein: the first integrated circuit package having the first interface comprises: the first interface defined by a first electrical interface pattern on a first substrate of the first integrated circuit package; the second integrated circuit package having the second interface further comprises: the second interface defined by a second electrical interface pattern on a second substrate of the second integrated circuit package; the first interface fitted with the second interface further comprises: the first electrical interface pattern mated with the second electrical interface pattern; and the third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package further comprises: the third integrated circuit package having a third electrical interface pattern on the second integrated circuit package; and further comprising: a fourth integrated circuit package having a fourth electrical interface pattern on the third integrated circuit package; the third electrical interface pattern mated with the fourth electrical interface pattern; and an encapsulation to cover the first integrated circuit package, the second integrated circuit package, the third integrated circuit package, and the fourth integrated circuit package.
 15. The system as claimed in claim 11 wherein: the first integrated circuit package having the first interface comprises: the first interface defined by a first electrical interface pattern on a first substrate of the first integrated circuit package; the second integrated circuit package having the second interface further comprises: the second interface defined by a second electrical interface pattern on a second substrate of the second integrated circuit package; the first interface fitted with the second interface further comprises: the first electrical interface pattern mated with the second electrical interface pattern; and the third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package further comprises: the third integrated circuit package having a third electrical interface pattern on the second integrated circuit package; and further comprising: an encapsulation to cover the first integrated circuit package, the second integrated circuit package, and the third integrated circuit package, a recess in the encapsulation to expose the third electrical interface pattern on a third substrate of the third integrated circuit package, a fourth integrated circuit package having a fourth electrical interface pattern in the recess on the third integrated circuit package, and a portion of the third electrical interface pattern mated with the fourth electrical interface pattern.
 16. The system as claimed in claim 11 wherein: the first integrated circuit package having the first interface has a first integrated circuit die; the second integrated circuit package having the second interface above the first integrated circuit package has a second integrated circuit die; the first interface fitted with the second interface is a compatible interface; and the third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package has a third integrated circuit die; and further comprising: the first integrated circuit package electrically connected to the second integrated circuit package.
 17. The system as claimed in claim 16 wherein: the first integrated circuit package having the first interface comprises: the first interface defined by a first electrical interface pattern on a first substrate of the first integrated circuit package; and the second integrated circuit package having the second interface above the first integrated circuit package further comprises: the second integrated circuit package with a second integrated circuit die having a second electrical interface pattern, and the second interface defined by the second electrical interface pattern; and further comprising: an encapsulation to cover the first integrated circuit package, the second integrated circuit package, and the third integrated circuit package; a recess in the encapsulation to expose the third electrical interface pattern on a third substrate of the third integrated circuit package; a fourth integrated circuit package having a fourth electrical interface pattern in the recess on the third integrated circuit package; and a portion of the third electrical interface pattern mated with the fourth electrical interface pattern.
 18. The system as claimed in claim 16 wherein the third integrated circuit package on the second integrated circuit package includes an interconnect between the third integrated circuit package and the second integrated circuit package.
 19. The system as claimed in claim 16 further comprising the first integrated circuit package on a package substrate.
 20. The system as claimed in claim 16 further comprising an interconnect between the first integrated circuit package and a package substrate. 